Cox’s Bazar, Dec 18 (V7N) — Serious allegations of irregularities have surfaced in the Digalia–Chakbaitha road construction project, which is being implemented with funding from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA). Investigations indicate that construction is being carried out using substandard materials in violation of approved project conditions and technical guidelines.
According to findings on the ground, instead of using approved aggregates and sand for the road’s base and sub-base layers, contractors are reportedly using low-grade crushed stone and, in many sections, replacing them entirely with red hill soil. In several areas, the required thickness has not been maintained, and work has allegedly been completed with inadequate compaction, contrary to project specifications.
Local resident Mahamudul Haque alleged that during construction, low-quality materials are being openly used, with bricks, concrete, and sand replaced by hill soil. He said such irregularities would severely compromise the road’s durability, particularly for long-term and heavy vehicle movement, and demanded immediate corrective measures.
Ahsan Ullah Moni, joint secretary of Ukhiya Upazila BNP, said that projects funded by an international donor such as JICA are expected to strictly ensure quality standards. Instead, he alleged, open irregularities and deception are taking place. He claimed that while compliance is shown on paper, the reality on the ground is completely different. Drawing on years of experience in contracting, he described the work as unprecedentedly substandard, irresponsible, and disgraceful, calling it a betrayal of public trust and a mockery of the donor agency’s confidence. He urged the government to take immediate and strict action.
Rajapalong Union Parishad acting chairman Mir Shahedul Islam Roman acknowledged irregularities in the road construction but reportedly requested that the issue not be published.
When contacted regarding the allegations, the owner of M/s Touhid and Brothers, the contracting firm, said that if any irregularities were proven, construction would be stopped immediately and necessary measures would be taken.
Upazila Engineer Mohammad Touhidul Islam stated that every component of the JICA-funded project would be implemented strictly in accordance with approved designs and standards. He added that appropriate action would be taken against the contractor if any violations were found.
Upazila Nirbahi Officer Rifat Asma said the administration is looking into the allegations.
Local residents alleged that the project, involving the construction of a 4,433-metre road at a cost of Tk 15 crore 80 lakh, is effectively being destroyed through misappropriation. They claimed the project has already suffered serious damage due to poor-quality work and warned of human chains and tougher protests if construction is not halted immediately, an independent quality assessment conducted, and those responsible held accountable.
Observers say such irregularities in internationally funded infrastructure projects not only undermine development but also pose a serious threat to the country’s image.
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